Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve answered some of the most common ones to help you feel informed, prepared, and confident in your hearing care journey.

Z&S AUDIOLOGY
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any queries or further questions, please do not hesitate to get into contact with us.
What does an Audiologist do?
An Audiologist is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and management of all hearing and balance related disorders.

Audiologists conduct hearing tests, evaluate dizzy patients, patients with tinnitus (ringing), create custom ear plugs for noise, recreation and sleep, fit hearing aids, advocate for better hearing health and remove ear wax where necessary.

Family of three sitting together at home
Do I need a referral from a specialist or doctor to see you?

Absolutely not! If you feel you need a hearing test or any of our other services, please feel free to contact us for an appointment.

We work in a multi-disciplinary team consisting of Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeons, Specialist Physicians, Neurologists, General Practitioners, speech therapists, occupational therapists and physiotherapists.

We may refer you to any one of these professionals for further treatment if deemed necessary.

What is the cost of a hearing test?

A full hearing test costs from R910, depending on which tests we do and how long the appointment takes. Medical aid rates may differ. See what happens at a hearing test.

The full appointment will take about 45 mins to an hour as we conduct a comprehensive history as we would love to get to know you better!

Do You Accept Medical Aid?

Yes. We are contracted to most medical aids that are part of the Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF), including Discovery, Bonitas and HearConnect.

If your medical aid is not one we are contracted to, you can pay upfront and we will give you an invoice to claim from your medical aid yourself.

What Tests Will Be Done At My Appointment?

Please arrive 10 minutes early to complete your file and POPI consent form.

Once you’re called in, we’ll begin with a detailed case history—feel free to bring some water as this part can take a bit of time.
Next, we’ll perform an ear examination, showing you the inside of your ears on a screen to ensure everything looks healthy.

We will then conduct a middle ear test to check:

  • Middle ear pressure
  • Eardrum movement (compliance)
  • Ear canal volume

This helps identify any blockages or signs of infection.

Following that, we’ll assess your hearing ability by placing earplugs and headphones on you. You’ll be asked to respond to the softest beep sounds you can hear. We’ll also measure the softest level of speech you can detect to confirm the reliability of the results.

If needed, we may also do an inner ear (cochlear) test to evaluate the function of your inner ear hair cells.

What is the price of hearing aids?

Hearing aids play a vital role in supporting individuals with hearing loss in their daily lives. Everyone’s listening needs are different—whether you’re in a noisy work environment or enjoying retirement at home.

Modern hearing aids are the result of years of research, designed to be both discreet and safe. Many models now include advanced features such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Bluetooth connectivity, and wind-noise management.

The cost of hearing aids can vary depending on features, size, and technology level. Fitting and programming should always be done by a qualified audiologist to ensure optimal results based on your unique hearing profile.

We work independently with five manufacturers (Oticon, Phonak, Unitron, ReSound and Starkey), so we can recommend what suits your hearing, lifestyle and budget.

Price guide: hearing aids range from about R14,550 to R106,500 a pair, including the fitting fee, depending on the technology level, style and accessories. Trials are available on most models. See the hearing aids we fit and their prices.

For a personalized quote or to book a comprehensive hearing evaluation, please contact us.

Will my medical aid cover any costs of hearing aids?

Some medical aids do have a hearing aid benefit which can assist you to purchase hearing aids.

However, it is your responsibility to find out the exact amount which the medical aid will cover, we CANNOT find this out for you due to the POPI ACT. We are contracted to most medical aids that are part of the Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF), including Discovery, Bonitas and HearConnect.

I am unable to come to your office, are you able to still test me?

Yes of course! All of our equipment can be packed up and transported to your doorstep. We are mobile and able to see you in the comfort of your own home, especially for home-bound individuals.

Alternatively, we can arrange to meet up somewhere quiet and conduct a consultation practically wherever you prefer, within reason.

We service the full Western Cape and can drive to the West Coast and Garden Route as well (standard transport fee using AA rate may be calculated and billed accordingly).

What is an Audiologist?

Shiraz Shakeel, audiologist at Z&S Audiology

An Audiologist is a healthcare practitioner who specializes in diagnosing hearing and balance related disorders. Audiologists treat and manage all types of hearing loss. Many individual’s are unaware of the complexity of audiology and the scope of practice of our profession.

Shiraz Shakeel, z&s AUDIOLOGY

BSc Audiology (University Of Cape Town) with Honours
Z&S Audiology logo

Audiologists select and fit hearing aids for individuals diagnosed with hearing loss. Audiologists may work in schools, special schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, community clinics or private practice.

Zay-yan Buggas, z&s auDIOLOGY

BSc Audiology (University Of Cape Town) with Honours